Dassault Systèmes (DS) just announced they are acquiring multi-body simulation company SIMPACK. Therefore, users should soon see multi-body mechatronic system simulations added to the SIMULIA end of the 3DEXPERIENCE (3DX) compass. Currently the transaction value has not been released.

This acquisition comes in a long line of partnerships, mergers and acquisitions in the simulation world from the Altair Partner Alliance, to ANSYS, and Autodesk. It appears as if the simulation companies have created a ‘space race’ to produce the most complete CAE package available. The goal being to fit everything under the multiphysics and PLM sun into one large umbrella platform.

As for SIMPACK’s strengths, it includes the simulation of non-linear effects (friction & flexible structures), complex models, efficient numerical algorithms, and real-time simulations.

DS hopes that SIMPACK will improve 3DX by producing an integrated solution for end-to-end advanced system development. This will include combining realistic multi-physics simulation, real-time simulation of mechatronics, and smart system control.

Bernard Charlès, President of Dassault Systèmes says, “Today’s acquisition of SIMPACK, part of a larger, ongoing strategy to continually expand the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, enables a complete virtual and real product experience, like never before.”

He adds, “Consumers expect automobiles, aircraft, and nearly all products to continually get smarter, safer, faster, quieter, and more efficient. This means companies need to do more than engineer everything coming together – such as controls, movement, bending, and noise. They need to experience their product as they create it.”

Currently, SIMPACK has over 130 customers within the automotive, energy, and rail industries. Some of the more renowned customers including Bombardier, BMW, Daimler, Honda, and Jaguar Land Rover.

Alex Eichberger, Founder and CEO of SIMPACK says, “SIMPACK has always provided product designers and consumers with a physical experience of a new product long before it comes into production. We have similar technology-driven cultures and a shared long-term commitment to scientific excellence … We will join forces and technologies to provide superior virtual and physical experiences, expanding industry solution experiences for transportation & mobility, aerospace & defense, and other industries.”

The acquisition agreement includes an all-cash transaction which was completed on July 10, 2014.

With all of these simulation companies Frankensteining together the most complete CAE software. The question of ‘how will these programs all function together under one roof’ will determine if they create monsters or genius.